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CREW’S CONTROL

Think trolley dollies are only there to hand out of nuts and point to the emergency exits? Wrong. Four of Virgin Atlantic’s finest reveal that they are prepared for everything from delusional passengers and used nappies to hungry sharks

WORDS: DOM TOP // PHOTOGRAPHY: VICTOR HENSEL-COE

Exotic locations, stylish uniforms, one never-ending holiday! That’s the common perception of life for airline cabin crew. And looking at the attractive, smiling faces of the staff of Virgin Atlantic, arguably the world’s sassiest airline, it’s easy to see where that idea comes from. But is life at high altitude all it’s cracked up to be? Is there more to it than high heels and high glamour? And what really happens if there are snakes on a plane? We spoke to four of Virgin’s finest to find out.

What do you think of the term trolley dolly?

CAMILLA: I don’t mind it.

CRAIG: It’s a light-hearted take on our role.

PAUL: It might have bothered me when I was new and felt as if I had something to prove, but now I’m a flight manager. I drive a Range Rover. I’m not bothered. I’ve got all-round parking sensors. I’m fine, babe.

DANIEL: You become comfortable in yourself and in your role. It just goes over your head after a while.

PAUL: Craig did get told he was “just a representative” once though.

CRAIG: He said: “you are just a representative in a uniform that serves tea and coffee. Now go away, boy.” I sent the head “representative” to go and deal with him!

How long is the training process to become a member of Virgin crew? Is the interview process difficult?

About Attitude

Dustin Lance Black, Academy Award winning writer and creator of the exciting new TV series When We Rise, is on the cover of the latest issue of Attitude.
Elsewhere in this issue: exclusive interview with the cast and creators of Moonlight, one of the most powerful gay films ever. Pop minx Bebe Rexha is ready to take over music. A special report on Kiev, Ukraine and whether it’s ready – and safe – for Eurovision. Travel issue special featuring New York, Ibiza, Paris, Fort Lauderdale, and more. PLUS: ‘Made in LA’, your FREE guide to Los Angeles.